Welcome to the CERA Homepage Established in 1997, the Conservation and Environmental Research Areas (CERA) of UMBC, were created to support environmental education and conservation at UMBC. At present, CERA covers about 50 acres of the UMBC landscape, and is located in two different areas. The larger tract, covering approximately 45 acres of the south end of the main campus, is comprised of a wide variety of ecological conditions: mature upland forest, early- and mid- successional forest, and riparian and wetland environments. The second, and much smaller CERA area (about 3 acres), surrounds Pigpen Pond. There are also several areas within CERA where evidence of previous human occupancy and use can be found. In addition to teaching opportunities for faculty, CERA offers a wide range of opportunities for students and faculty to undertake short and long term research projects in a variety of disciplines. Management of CERA is guided by the need to maintain these landscapes as natural areas to be preserved and protected for approved uses in education, research and wildlife observation. Faculty and students desiring further information or who wish to utilize CERA for research and teaching are encouraged to contact the CERA Steering Committee (eparker@umbc.edu). Directions to CERA from the Administration Building: The easiest way to get to CERA is to cross Loop Road and walk along UMBC Boulevard to the Research Park entrance (see CERA map). Due to construction of the Research Park, keep a sharp eye out for vehicles and other construction activities. As you walk along Research Park drive, you will see CERA on your right. When you draw close to the road circle, turn to your right, towards CERA. There is no clear path here, unfortunately, but you will be headed to the main woods of CERA. You will pass by the sediment pond on your right, and from here you can see the old roadbed that marks the beginning of the CERA landscape. Follow along the roadbed until you see the sign for the interpretive trail.